Imperial Tobacco helps independents fight back against the illicit trade

From 1 September, Imperial Tobacco’s new JPS Tobacco (specially developed for adult smokers to create their own JPS cigarettes using a ‘cigarette making’ kit) will be available to all UK retailers.

Imperial Tobacco Group PLC

Martin Goodall, Imperial Tobacco’s head of sales, said: “Independent retailers are vitally important to both the UK tobacco market and Imperial Tobacco and we are hugely committed to building upon the strong business relationships we have with our trade customers and developing unique and innovative products for them to stock on their shelves. We launched our new JPS Tobacco, and the accompanying cigarette manufacturers and tubes, to our multiple retail customers earlier this year and sales have been very positive and are in line with our expectations. This provides a great platform for the nationwide launch to independent retailers.

“In the current economic climate, the prevalent ‘value-seeking’ trend has accelerated as more adult smokers are moving down through the cigarette price sectors, demonstrating their preference for cheaper tobacco options. Product innovations which reflect market trends are imperative as the category moves forward towards a potential tobacco display ban and the associated increase in sales of illicit tobacco.

“Our new JPS Tobacco enables smokers to create 20 quality king size cigarettes for £3.87* after purchasing the accompanying cigarette makers and tubes. The product provides cost-conscious consumers, who may purchase tobacco from illicit tobacco traders, an incentive to buy from legitimate retailers as JPS gives them a quality reassurance backed up by the heritage and value for which JPS is renowned.”

Martin concludes; “Despite continual legislative pressures, and the threat of the illegal tobacco trade, the 12 million UK adults who choose to smoke spend over £14bn per year on their preferred brands in retail outlets. At Imperial Tobacco, we will continue to respond to market trends and work closely with our independent retail partners to ensure we provide consumers with high quality tobacco products offering great value as we fight back against the criminals.”